Use this checklist before you engage an ITAD partner or refresh a hardware estate. It helps IT, procurement, and compliance teams align on scope, risk, logistics, and reporting so projects complete on time with auditable evidence.
This 6-page guide covers 6 practical steps for IT, compliance, and sustainability teams.
1.Define scope and asset categories
List every site, business unit, and asset type in scope — laptops, desktops, servers, mobiles, printers, and network hardware. Capture approximate volumes, ownership (owned vs leased), and any contractual return or buyback constraints. A clear scope prevents last-minute surprises during collection.
2.Identify data-bearing devices
Flag devices that store or may store personal or sensitive data, including peripherals with memory (MFDs, tablets, removable drives). Map each category to a required sanitisation method so nothing slips through as “non-data” by default.
3.Confirm compliance requirements
Document which frameworks apply: UK GDPR, sector regulators, ADISA, ISO controls, and any client or insurer obligations. Decide who must approve certificates and how long records must be retained.
4.Plan secure collection logistics
Agree collection windows, building access, packing rules, and chain-of-custody steps. For multi-site programmes, sequence sites to minimise disruption and keep GPS-tracked transport and seal numbers on every movement.
5.Agree reporting and certificate needs
Specify the audit pack you need: serial-level inventory, destruction or erasure certificates, financial recovery summaries, and executive digests. Confirm file formats and delivery timelines before work starts.
6.Review sustainability and reuse targets
Set reuse-first targets where risk allows, and define which ESG metrics matter (reuse rate, e-waste diverted, CO₂e avoided). Align sustainability and security stakeholders so shredding is reserved for true high-risk or non-viable assets.
Request a personalised PDF copy and our team will send this guide with recommendations tailored to your sector, asset types, and compliance requirements.